Basketball

FIBA WORLD CUP: Blatche back in harness for Gilas

Paul Lintag on Dec 29, 2018 12:13 PM

Andray Blatche is expected to make the team for Gilas’ final two road games against Kazakhstan and Qatar.

After a rather disappointing final home window in the 2019 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, back up is set to arrive for Gilas Pilipinas.

The back up’s name is Andray Blatche.

Gilas’ naturalized center is expected to be back in early 2019 as the Philippines looks to salvage its World Cup slot in China.

In a FIBA report citing Manila Bulletin, it’s been confirmed that Blatche is back in the Gilas lineup. Andray’s suspension from FIBA is over and while he was eligible to play in the Iran game last Dec. 3, the national team opted not to include him in the new 20-man pool.

That’s not the case this time and Blatche is expected to make the team for Gilas’ final two road games against Kazakhstan and Qatar.

“It’s confirmed. I will be back to play for the Philippines in February,” Blatche said via Theia Sports from the first Bulletin report.

The Philippines is in danger of missing the World Cup with an even 5-5 record in Group F. Gilas is trailing Australia, Iran, and Japan in its group and the Boomers already clinched their spot.

"He sent us word of his commitment for the next window," Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas President Al Panlilio said of Blatche.

"In fact, he is willing to come in early to get in top shape and to work with coach Yeng Guiao and understand his system," he added.